Panum Bridge
0314-COB-CPH.DK-2011.12
Architect: COBE
Status: Project (2011) On going (2011 - 2012)
Visualizer: Studio
Scale: Small
Types: Bridge, Public space

Making an impact without leaving a footprint – the new Panum Bridge connects Rigshospitalet and Panum flying between the crowns of the trees across Amorparken and Tagensvej. As such an elegant building literally facilitating the exchange of knowledge in the sciences, it is a most important signature and attraction in the renewed Nørre Campus Copenhagen.

The concept of the bridge building is based on the idea, that the existing underground connection may be useful to facilitate some, but by far not for all the connections that exist between Panum and the Rigshospital today. All researchers, doctors and students have to use the existing underground tunnel when moving between the two buildings. The tunnel is also a reaction to the over-dimensioned Tagensvej that cuts the area into two halves. As a consequence of noise and other emissions, Amorparken is underused when it could be a connector between the two campus areas.

The bridge building is an answer to all those challenges: Attention is drawn to the hidden beauty of Amorparken. The entry to Nørre Campus is highlighted. The monotonous facade of Panum is improved by creating an intermission with the effect of downscaling. And the fine architecture of the new building, Panum Bridge radiates the brand of Nørre Campus – an open and vibrating area of intense research and exchange.

Direct paths are not always the best solutions. A direct link between the two strategically important points of Panum and Rigshospital would be 150m long. The Panum Bridge how we suggest it, is 159m. Yet, those nine meters make all the difference! The building is shaped in such a way, that all the trees in the park are preserved. No structural element will leave a footprint in the park. Yet, the bridge building does not only preserve the trees, but enhances their beauty by allowing a different perspective on them. The bridge elegantly curves between the existing trees creating small pockets of spaces emphasizing different views across the area, and at the building itself. Can you imagine a more beautiful place for a small break or an inspiring conversation among colleagues than in the crown of a monumental copper beech?

Collaborator: Rambøll | Post date: 13/01/2012 | Views: 4.350